The Umbrella Team

Beryl has been associated with the Whitstable Umbrella Community Support Centre since 2002. During this time they volunteered in various roles and wherever needed. Beryl retired from a full time career in accounting in 2006 and has since been more involved with the Centre, leading some regular activities and is most passionate about the Centre’s community driven values and wants to see it head into a bright future, continuing to support the town as it has done for many years.

Kirsty has lived in Whitstable for 20 years attending many events and activities at the centre over the years. Kirsty is keen to support the centre in its mission to be an inclusive, warm, and welcoming space for all members of the community and look for new and diverse ways that this mission can be achieved. She has a wealth of experience as a project and people leader, gained for many years working in the pharmaceutical industry which will aid the centre in delivering key projects, ensuring long term stability for all users.

Matthew has been a trustee at Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre since October 2023. With extensive experience in business development, leadership, and supporting start-ups at C-suite level, he brings valuable insight to the Centre’s growth and strategy. Matthew is passionate about helping the Centre remain a vital community hub while exploring new opportunities to expand its role as a creative arts venue for live music, theatre, and comedy. He is inspired by the dedication of the volunteers and staff working tirelessly to keep the Centre thriving and is committed to supporting its evolution into a welcoming, inclusive space for all.

Simon has lived in Whitstable for 15 years. He held a number of senior housing development and regeneration positions in local government over a thirty year career. In 2019, he became a partner in an FCA regulated business focussing on developing housing solutions for the homeless.

Craig was born and raised in Whitstable, he is committed to working with local people and wants to help create a thriving community centre for all to attend and enjoy. In past years Craig had spent time supervising and running the charity carpark at the Junior School with the Whitstable District Chamber of Commerce, seeing to it that local charities received opportunity and needed support. He also has experience in catering, events planning and finance.

From DIY to tech and design, Craig will turn his hand to most things if he feels he can be of help. Outside of hosting Centre events and fundraisers, you’ll often find him lending a hand at events taking place in town and in the Centre such as the Whitstable Open Gardens/ National Garden Scheme, Wild About Whitstable, May Day Morris Fundraisers, Whitstable Carnival Fundraisers and the towns festive light switch on/ Whitsparkle Lantern Parade and Ball.